VERNON HILLS—Senator Terry Link (D-Vernon Hills) responded to news of layoffs at multiple community colleges and universities in Lake County and across the state.

“Our higher education infrastructure is crumbling. Community colleges and universities are forced to make drastic decisions because Governor Rauner won’t negotiate seriously with the General Assembly,” Link said.

The College of Lake County announced recently the cutting of 20 positions. College President Jerry Weber stated that might not be enough to close the gap and that more layoffs could be on the way after the school year.

“The governor has had multiple opportunities to prioritize higher education, and he vetoed every one,” Link said. “The College of Lake County and the state need a budget, not more gimmicky rhetoric.”

The Senate recently passed legislation, Senate Bill 2059, which among other things would send funding to institutions of higher education. It goes to the House for consideration when the General Assembly reconvenes next week.